Operation Sindoor Hero Rizwan Malik Honoured For Precision Strike On Terror Camps
A year after Operation Sindoor, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik of the Indian Air Force is once again being recognised for his courageous role in carrying out precision strikes on terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The fighter pilot from Manipur played a key role in the high-risk midnight mission that targeted terror infrastructure linked to groups including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, weeks after the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region, where 26 civilians lost their lives. In response, the Indian Air Force conducted focused and carefully planned strikes on terror launch pads and camps across the border. The mission was described as precise and non-escalatory, aimed only at terror infrastructure without targeting civilian areas.
According to official details, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik flew a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet during the operation and was part of an unescorted strike package that entered heavily defended airspace during the midnight mission. Despite radar threats, aerial surveillance and enemy air defence systems, he successfully carried out precision missile strikes on key terror targets. Reports stated that he continued with the mission even under extreme risk and completed multiple attack objectives during the operation.
Rizwan Malik hails from Keikhu village in Manipur’s Imphal East district and joined the Indian Air Force in 2015 as part of the 195th Flying Course. Known for his expertise in deep-strike missions and air superiority operations, he rose to the rank of Squadron Leader in 2021. His bravery and leadership during Operation Sindoor earned him the prestigious Vir Chakra, one of India’s highest wartime gallantry awards.
The story of Rizwan Malik has inspired many across the country, especially in the Northeast, where leaders and local communities celebrated his achievement. His role in Operation Sindoor is being remembered as a symbol of courage, precision and dedication to national security as India marks one year of the military operation.
